Ched Evans is optimistic he can make a contribution to United's Championship campaign during the final 16 games.

Speaking after playing his first full 90 minutes since ankle surgery the striker is now keen to take his chance when called upon.

He remarked: "I still believe I can make an impact this season, but it's about remaining patient. We've got a lot of good strikers at the club but sometimes things happen, and it could give me that opportunity.

"I just need a chance now, a lot of the lads in the squad have had a chance. I did OK in the FA Cup against Preston and hopefully I might feature at Leicester in the next round."

And he is confident he is now well over the problematic ankle issue that hampered him in the opening months of the season.

He added: "The surgery certainly feels like it's been a success. I was literally functioning at 60% before, I couldn't shoot or sprint properly which was frustrating.

"The rehabilitation has gone to plan, apart from an infection post-surgery.

"The physios have done a great job with me and I've not had to be rushed back because of strength we have in the striking department."